Article type
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Abstract
Background:
Systematic reviews have become increasingly important in health care; however the methodology in which the reviews were created is often subpar or not entirely transparent. Last year the Institute of Medicine (IOM) issued a report titled, ‘Finding what works in health care: Standards for systematic reviews’ which outlined methodological standards aimed to improve the quality of systematic reviews.Objectives:
Our organization aims to sustain a program where physicians receive the funding, resources, and education to conduct high quality systematic reviews on topics within our specialty. The systematic reviews developed from this program will create a foundation for the development of clinical practice guidelines, clinical performance measures, and maintenance of certification as well as provide a reliable resource for practitioners within our medical specialty.Description of best practice: In 2006, we implemented a scholars program open to our organization’s members interested in conducting systematic reviews. Four grantees were chosen based on their prior experience, statement of interest, and proposed topic for systematic review. Each grantee receives funding to attend the Cochrane Colloquium where they attend seminars and scientific workshops. Staff and physicians serving on research committees within our organization may assist the grantee with the literature reviews and manuscript development process. Grantees must agree to complete their systematic review within 12 months of attending the Cochrane Colloquium and submit their findings to our organization’s peer-reviewed journal for publication consideration.